speculation

noun

spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən 

: an act or instance of speculating: such as

a

: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain

b

: a transaction involving such speculation

Synonyms of speculation

• gamble
• venture
• chance

Examples of speculation in a Sentence

He dismissed their theories as mere speculation.

The book is just a lot of idle speculation about the future.

Her speculations leave many questions unanswered.

He lost everything in foolish land speculation.

Recent Examples on the Web

To prevent speculation that drives up land price without actual construction, the zoning benefits would be granted only on submission of building-permit applications. — Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026

Since leaving Love Island USA, Nic and Olandria have faced speculation around the authenticity of their relationship, given their private nature. — Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 22 July 2026

This could mean that the Google Health Coach will eventually make its way to the Galaxy Watch 9, though that's just speculation. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 22 July 2026

Non-dollar stablecoin supply has still roughly tripled since early 2023, driven by payments and payroll rather than speculation. — Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing speculation

• anti-speculation

Rhymes for speculation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

speculation

noun

spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspek-yə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: thoughts or guesses about something

much speculation about who the new teacher would be

2

: the taking of a big risk in business in hopes of making a big profit

Legal Definition

speculation

noun

spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən 

: an act or instance of speculating: as

a

: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain

b

: a transaction involving such speculation